Oh So Smart

Article
From:
8/31/2006
Automotive Design & Production

DaimlerChrysler’s new SMART ev, an electrically powered version of the fortwo model, will be offered to UK corporate customers on a lease basis as part of a trial marketing program starting this November.

DaimlerChrysler’s new SMART ev, an electrically powered version of the fortwo model, will be offered to UK corporate customers on a lease basis as part of a trial marketing program starting this November. The normal three-cylinder powertrain (gasoline or diesel) is replaced by a 30-kW motor and batteries supplied by UK firm Zytek Group (www.zytekgroup.co.uk), which also converts the cars to electric power. In-town performance (0-30 mph in 6.5 seconds) is said to be better than for the gasoline version, and a range of 72 miles is claimed. If successful, the next generation fortwo will offer an electric version for the public, though it is unclear whether that variant will be offered when SMART launches in the US.